Grecian Copper
Common NameGrecian Copper
Scientific NameLycaena ottomanus
FamilyLycaenidae
SubfamilyLycaeninae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, grey
HabitatDry, rocky grasslands, open scrub, clearings, often near host plants.
Geographic RangeBalkan Peninsula (Greece, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Albania, European Turkey).
Host PlantsRumex
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on the host plant leaves. Larvae feed on *Rumex* species, pupation occurs near the ground, and it typically overwinters as an egg or young larva.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the greyish-brown hindwing underside with a strong orange submarginal band and prominent black spots. Males have more extensive orange on the upper side than females.
Description
A small butterfly with bright orange forewings marked with black spots, and greyish-brown hindwings on the underside, featuring a distinctive row of black spots and a prominent orange submarginal band.
